Japan's Nishikori has beaten Cilic in five of their eight head-to-head matches, but in their last meeting at Flushing Meadows last September the Croatian prevailed in straight sets (6-3 6-3 6-3) to win his first Grand Slam title.

Nishikori has been one of the strongest players this season. He has moved up to No. 5 in the world rankings with a 41-9 record. Only Novak Djokovic (48-3) and Andy Murray (48-8) have more match wins on the 2015 ATP World Tour.

"Hopefully, I can get some revenge against Marin," Nishikori said. "I've been playing good here and hopefully I can come up with another good one in the semis tomorrow."

"It's great to be back in the semi-finals here and to have a chance to play against Kei in the United States," world number eight Cilic said. "It's a great way to start the summer hardcourt season, and I feel that my form is getting better match after match."